Dog License Singapore: Rules, Fees, and How to Apply

Why Dog Licensing Matters in Singapore

Dog licensing in Singapore is not merely an administrative requirement. It plays a key role in public safety, disease control, and responsible pet ownership. The Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA), now under the National Parks Board (NParks), manages the licensing framework. Their goal is straightforward: ensure traceability of pets, support rabies prevention, and encourage responsible care.

Licensing also helps authorities identify pets swiftly if they go missing, manage overcrowding risks, and maintain updated contact information for pawrents. By keeping your license valid, you contribute to a system designed to protect both your dog and the wider community.

Who Must Apply for a Dog License

In Singapore, every dog must be licensed. This applies to dogs of all ages, breeds, and housing types. Even puppies require a license once they are microchipped.

Key requirements:

• All dogs must be microchipped before licensing.
• Licenses must be renewed periodically depending on the type chosen.
• Each dog must be registered under the owner responsible for their care.

This requirement ensures full traceability and proper health monitoring, especially for vaccinations.

Types of Licenses Available

There are several licensing durations available, allowing flexibility for different pawrent needs.

1. One-year license – Suitable for new pawrents or those who prefer short-term renewals.
2. Two-year license – Offers better value with reduced renewals.
3. Three-year license – Ideal for long-term stability; fewer renewals and better cost per year.
4. Lifetime license – Available for sterilised dogs only and provides the most convenience.

Choosing between these options depends on your long-term plans and the dog’s sterilisation status. Most adult dog owners opt for either the three-year or lifetime license for ease of management.

Fees and Cost Structure

NParks provides a clear fee structure based on the dog's sterilisation status and license duration. Sterilised dogs enjoy significantly lower fees, as sterilisation reduces risk of unintended breeding and behavioural issues.

General fee guidelines:

• Licensed, sterilised dog: From about S$15/year, or S$35 one‑time for a lifetime licence (first three dogs).
• Licensed, unsterilised dog: From about S$90/year, up to S$230 for a three‑year licence (first three dogs).
• Renewals: Multi‑year licences work out cheaper per year, and there is a small rebate for online / GIRO / AXS payment.
• Lifetime licence: Available only for sterilised dogs and charged as a one‑time fee.

Fees may be updated periodically, so it is advisable to check the NParks Pet Animal Licensing System (PALS) before applying. Fees are as of 1st Jan 2026.

Microchipping Requirements

Microchipping is mandatory before applying for a dog license. This permanent identification method links your dog to your contact information, ensuring recoverability if the dog becomes lost.

Vets performing microchipping will issue a certificate that includes the microchip number. This number is required during the licensing process.

A microchip greatly increases the chance of recovering a missing dog and helps prevent disputes regarding ownership.

Mandatory Vaccinations and Records

The rabies vaccination record is a key part of dog licensing in Singapore. Although Singapore is free of rabies, maintaining up-to-date vaccination records helps prevent the risk of reintroduction through imported animals.

Pawrents must ensure that vaccination records are accurate and current. These records may be required during renewal or update of license information.

How to Apply for a Dog License (Step-by-Step)

NParks has streamlined the licensing process through the Pet Animal Licensing System (PALS). The online portal simplifies applications, renewals, and record updates.

STEP 1: Microchip your dogHave your vet implant a microchip and request the microchip certificate.

STEP 2: Prepare required document

• Microchip number
• Vaccination records
• Sterilisation certificate (if applicable)

STEP 3: Log in to PALS - Use your Singpass to access the online portal.

STEP 4: Complete the license application - Enter your dog’s details, upload required documents, and select your licensing duration.

STEP 5: Make payment - Payment can be made directly within the portal.

STEP 6: Receive confirmation -The digital license will be issued upon approval. Keep it accessible for reference or inspection if required.

Renewing or Updating Your License

Licenses must be renewed before expiration. Pawrents will typically receive reminders via email. Renewal is completed in the same PALS portal and requires confirmation of updated vaccination and sterilisation records if changes occurred.

If you move homes or update contact information, it is essential to update the license to ensure traceability.

Special Rules for Certain Breeds and Housing Types

Singapore has specific regulations for certain dog breeds and housing categories. For example, HDB residents must adhere to the list of approved breeds. Some larger or restricted breeds may require additional conditions or may only be permitted in landed properties.

Always verify housing restrictions before adopting or purchasing a dog. Licensing does not override housing rules.

Consequences of Not Licensing a Dog

Failure to license a dog can result in enforcement action. Penalties help maintain accountability and support community safety. More importantly, an unlicensed dog loses the protection of traceability, making recovery difficult if lost or involved in an incident.

Licensing is a pawrent’s responsibility and a key part of responsible ownership.

Licensing as a Commitment

Dog licensing may feel administrative, but it represents an important aspect of caring for your dog within Singapore’s structured environment. It communicates that your dog is accounted for, vaccinated, and part of a system designed to protect them.

By completing and maintaining your dog’s license, you contribute to a safer, more responsible pet community. Licensing is a small administrative task with significant long-term impact for both pawrents and pets.